PNP sets new parameters; 54 election areas of immediate concern identified in WV
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has divided into two categories the areas considered as election hotspots by setting new parameters. As such, Police Regional Office (PRO) 6 regional director Chief Supt. Wilfredo Dulay Sr. revealed that Western Visayas has 54 election areas of immediate concern (EAIC) and 24 election areas of concern (EAC).
Based on the new parameters set by PNP those identified as EAIC are areas where there are strong presence of communist insurgents which are involved in election-related violence. While EAC are those areas with intense political rivalry and has the presence of partisan armed groups.
To date, Negros Occidental has the most number of EAIC totaling 25. These are: Bago City, Cadiz City, Caltrava, Candoni, Cauayan, EB Magalona, Hinoba-an, Ilog, Kabankalan City, Manapla, Moises Padilla, Murcia, Sagay City, Silay City, Sipalay City, Talisay City, Victorias City, Escalante City, Himamaylan, La Castellana, La Carlota City, Pontevedra, Hinigaran, Don Salvador Benedicto, and Pulupandan.
On the other hand, PRO 6 identified 11 EAICs in Capiz, 10 in Iloilo, five in Aklan and three in Antique.
Meanwhile, the 24 EACs are: New Washington in Aklan; Caluya, Laua-an, Patnongon, Valderrama, Culasi and Bugasong in Antique; Roxas City, Capiz; Anilao, Balasan, Dingle, Guimbal, Dumangas, Lemery, Pavia, San Dionisio, San Enrique, Sta. Barbara, Leganes, Dueñas and Maasin in Iloilo; San Lorezo and Buenavista in Guimaras; and the Iloilo City Proper.
Dulay said enhanced security measures will be implemented in the identified areas in preparation for the coming May 14 elections.
Dulay further clarified that the EACs may be upgraded to EAIC status should any of the parameters occur therein during this election period.
To note, there are now several pro-active security measures being implemented by the PNP to deter any and all forms of criminalities in all areas to contain the peace and order situation this election season.
(PIO-PRO6)